Our latest KRedit student, Lewis, shared his experience after completing a work experience placement in our steel and sheet metal workshops.

Tell me a bit about yourself and what you’ve been doing at KR Group

My name is Lewis; I’m 17 years old and have recently left school. I am currently sitting my S5 exams at Ellon Academy. I’ve been doing weekly work experience with KR Group, working in both the steel and sheet metal workshops. In my spare time, I enjoy working on my car. Recently, I’ve been fixing, modifying and upgrading it whilst learning to drive. 

What is something that surprised you about the construction industry?

It surprised me the age of some of the machines. In the sheet metal workshop, there was a mix of equipment from the 1970s all the way up to the 2000s. It was cool to see that even the older machines still had good technology and worked well. 

It also surprised me how many different stages there are in each project, and how much effort goes into getting a job finished from start to finish. It was interesting to see the process of this.  

What is a task you have particularly enjoyed when you’ve been at KR?

I really enjoyed helping with the recent car park upgrade at KRHQ. I was involved in the installation of the railings along the path leading to the office. It was good to be part of something from start to finish. I liked that I got to see the drawings and then how everything was built and put up. 

I also enjoyed working in the sheet metal workshop, especially cutting and folding gutters. It gave me more hands-on experience and helped build my confidence with the equipment.

Where do you see yourself in a few years?

In a few years, I would like to have completed or working towards an apprenticeship or qualification in welding and fabrication. I have really enjoyed working in the workshops at KR Group. This has helped me to realise I would like to start a career in welding. 

What have you learned from this experience?

During my work experience, I picked up a lot of useful skills and got a better idea of being in a real working environment. I made sure to be professional and turn up on time every day and listened to those around me. It was great to work with experienced members of the team which taught me a lot. I also learned how to use the different machines in both workshops and how to set them up using the drawings. Although this was confusing to begin with, it got easier the more I did it.  

Allan Menzies, Sheet Metal Workshop Supervisor, said:

“Lewis was a great addition to the team and was always a great help. He asked lots of questions and was keen to learn more. Thank you, Lewis, for all your help!”